Guide to Care for Houseplants

Are you one of those who have a lot of plant's lives on your conscience? Get greener thumbs here! By following these few simple guidelines, you can enjoy your houseplants for many years. Are you looking for new favorites or a green gift? Check out our plant category.


Bulb spring flowers lie upon newspaper with their roots and soil exposed. Ceramic pots and a watering can are also placed in the middle of the image

Plants need light

As a general rule, flowering plants require more light than green plants. However, it is important to read the instructions on the specific plant. Flowering plants should be placed near a window, while green plants should not be placed in direct sunlight. Most plants thrive with natural light without direct sun exposure. Plants grow towards sunlight, so it may be a good idea to rotate them occasionally to ensure harmonious growth.

Potted hydrangea sitting on coffee table with sofa and armchair in the background

Watering as Needed

All houseplants should be watered fairly regularly. Therefore, it's important to have a good watering routine. Follow the watering advice on the plant's label and water directly into the soil. Don't let excess water stand in the pot for too long: a good rule of thumb is to pour any excess water out after about 30 minutes. Place the pot on a saucer to prevent water damage to furniture.

Assorted potted herbs stand in the window sill with sunshine pouring in through the window

Repotting

When you bring a plant home or receive one as a gift, allow it to acclimate by keeping it in its original pot. Only after a few weeks should you consider transplanting it into a new and larger pot. You can repot approximately once a year, more often if the plant is becoming unstable or if the roots are protruding from the bottom of the pot, and less frequently if the plant seems to be thriving

Assorted green potted houseplants are perched upon wire shelving

Keep the Plants Healthy

If your plant looks a bit tired during the winter months, it's likely just gone into dormancy and doesn't need extra nutrients. But from April to September, your houseplant is growing and requires plenty of nourishment. Remove faded flowers and rotten leaves, and dust the leaves occasionally to allow the plant to breathe. This reduces the risk of diseases and pests.